Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast

This week on Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast, we welcome back the insightful Kourosh Dini, MD, for a deeper dive into the surprisingly simple yet profoundly effective concept of "the visit." Since his last appearance, we've been hearing incredible stories from our listeners about how this technique has transformed their relationship with tasks, and we're thrilled to have him back to share more. “The visit" isn't about powering through a to-do list; it's about gently engaging with a task, even just for a single deep breath, and building trust in our future selves. He breaks down the two essential elements: showing up (fully present with the task) and staying (lingering for just a moment), emphasizing that this seemingly small act can spark unexpected breakthroughs.

We all know the struggle of force-based work – the urgency, the shame, the last-minute scramble fueled by a desperate need for a dopamine hit. Dr. Dini offers a refreshing alternative with the visit, suggesting that it opens us up to a wider range of emotions and allows us to tap into our innate playfulness. This shift, he explains, can transform work from a dreaded chore into a more sustainable and even enjoyable experience. He also addresses the common worry of "over-visiting" a task, assuring us that repeated visits can actually deepen our understanding and pave the way for real progress.

Ever feel like you're staring blankly at your task list, overwhelmed by the sheer number of things you need to do? Dr. Dini gets it. He explains how visits can combat that dreaded task blindness and help us regain momentum. By regularly checking in with a task, even briefly, we maintain a connection and avoid the sense of being lost or overwhelmed. He shares a relatable analogy from his experience as a musician, highlighting how stepping away from a challenging composition can often lead to unexpected insights upon returning.

Finally, Dr. Dini reminds us that real progress isn't always measurable. In a world obsessed with quantifiable results, he encourages us to value the internal shifts that happen during and between visits. These unmeasurable moments of insight, he argues, are the true building blocks of meaningful work. Join us as we explore the power of the visit, not as a quick fix but as a pathway to a more fulfilling and sustainable way of working.

Links & Notes
  • (00:00) - Welcome to Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast
  • (02:49) - Introducing Kourosh Dini, MD
  • (05:44) - Finding The Visit
  • (13:31) - Forced-Based Work Methods
  • (18:21) - Visiting Thoughtfully
  • (27:24) - Fires-Based Work Methods
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What is Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast?

Nikki Kinzer and Pete Wright offer support, life management strategies, and time and technology tips, dedicated to anyone looking to take control while living with ADHD.